Whereas the provincial and federal environmental assessment processes are not the direct jurisdiction of local governments and therefore not subject to associated service cost recovery fees; And whereas environmental assessment processes, while of critical importance to communities, are very time-consuming, expensive, and onerous for local government staff, community, and council: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM ask the Province to establish proponent fees to support the participation of local governments in environmental assessment processes, including compensation associated with the research and review of applications, participation in technical and working groups, augmented community engagement, and post-decision regulatory processes should a project Certificate be issued.
Ministry of Environment and Parks The Environmental Assessment Office EAO recognizes the significant role that local governments play in the environmental assessment process and is committed to continued collaboration with UBCM and local governments to enhance local community involvement in environmental assessments. The 2018 Environmental Assessment Act the Act contains a provision that it be reviewed after five years to make sure it is working well and as intended. As a first step in this Act Review, in 2024 the EAO carried out engagement with UBCM and other groups and organizations to hear what has been working well and not working well. The issue of funding for local governments to support participation in the environmental assessment process, and other matters raised in the submission provided by UBCM, are part of the feedback currently being considered by the EAO as it works to identify the scope and process for the next steps of the Act Review. The Act Review will provide further engagement opportunities, and local governments are encouraged to participate and share any information related to barriers to their full participation in environmental assessments.